Towing company owner arrested

The owner of Lexington-based Winchester Towing & Recovery was arrested and charged with several counts of theft by deception.

George "Mike" Winchester, who has since been released from jail, insists that he is innocent.

"It's a bunch of false lies and false statements and we're just following city ordinance," said Winchester.

Winchester and his attorney say the city of Lexington has been attacking his company because it competes with Bluegrass Towing who currently has a contract with the city. Winchester Towing focuses on private property towing services. Attorney Jerry Anderson tells NewsFirst that Lexington police officers are getting "kick-backs" from Bluegrass Towing.

One person who believes Winchester is not the most upstanding business owner is Jeremy Stanley. Stanley is the president of APC Paving. He is currently involved in a lawsuit with Winchester over the non-payment of services.

"He won't return our calls," Stanley said.

Stanley adds that while he might never see the money Winchester owes him for paving work at his impound lot, he says he's happy to see that his business practices are getting some attention.

Winchester's arraignment has been set for Tuesday at 1:00 p.m.

Lexington Police are asking anyone who might have information on theft by deception incidents related to Winchester Towing to call (859) 258-3600 or Bluegrass Crime Stoppers at (859) 253-2020.

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